Random Music Thoughts – February 27, 2012

This past weekend was all about the Promise Ring. They played Milwaukee on Friday and Chicago on Saturday. Rolling Stone has a well-written review of their Milwaukee show. AV Club also has a review of the Milwaukee show.

I waited until Saturday to see the Promise Ring at Metro and they were great. I’d only seen them once and that was way back in 1998. I can’t believe it had been so long but I’m glad I was able to see them again. I ended up getting a decent spot despite the crowd. They played a good mix of their material and seemed really excited to be playing live again. It was a really enjoyable show.

In other news, Andrew Bird’s new album, Break It Yourself, is streaming over at NPR.

Random Music Thoughts – February 14, 2012

Cursive’s new album, I Am Gemini,  is streaming over at Rolling Stone. I think it’s pretty good. I’m still debating whether to see them next month at Lincoln Hall.

It’s Valentine’s Day so here are some love songs, enjoy!

Random Music Thoughts – February 8, 2012

There is some good stuff in the Trib today. First there is a feature on Sharon Van Etten.

The Trib also has a good review of Craig Finn’s show last night.

I really enjoyed the Craig Finn show last night. I wasn’t sure what to expect from this one. I had listened to some of Craig’s new solo stuff online but I was only familiar with a handful of songs. Although the performance wasn’t as loud as a Hold Steady show, it was still captivating. Craig had a backing band for most songs but he also played a few songs by himself. Some of the songs were kind of depressing but others were fun and energetic. You could tell that Craig and his band were having a good time. I also appreciated that Craig provided an explanation for most of the songs that he played. It was different from a Hold Steady show but I honestly enjoyed it more than the last time I saw THS. I don’t know if he’ll play any more solo shows in Chicago, but last night was definitely a treat.

Random Music Thoughts – February 7, 2012

In anticipation of tonight’s show at Empty Bottle, here’s AV Club’s recent interview with Craig Finn.

Looks like Rocky Votolato is playing Schubas on May 17, 2012.

NYT has a great feature on Sharon Van Etten.